Playa Roja: The Best Sunset Spot in Santa Cruz

Playa Roja is one of those Galápagos secrets that rewards effort with magic. Whether you bike there like I did, ride in a car, or camp under the stars, it’s a place that reminds you why these islands are so special.

It was just past 2:00 PM when I set off on my bike from Puerto Ayora, with the sun still high above and the sea breeze brushing against my back. My destination? Playa Roja, a remote red-sand beach tucked away on the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island—about 40 km away.

With my backpack loaded with water, snacks, a headlamp, and sunscreen, I pedaled north along Avenida Baltra. The road stretched straight for miles, flanked by scalecia forest and volcanic terrain, giving way to open skies and the occasional finch fluttering by.

⁠

⁠The Ride North

The first stop came around 10 km in—Bellavista, a highland town with just enough shade to cool off. I leaned my bike and sipped a local sugarcane juice under a small tienda awning, chatting briefly with a local about the weather (always unpredictable in the highlands).

Another 15 km ahead, I reached Santa Rosa, the last real checkpoint before the final stretch. I stopped again for water and stretched my legs while watching tortoises roam near the edge of a farm.

From Santa Rosa, the road turned quieter. A few trucks passed by but mostly it was just me, the road, and the wild Galápagos landscape rolling by.

Arrival at the Trailhead

By 4:30 PM, I finally arrived at the Playa Roja trailhead. There's a small parking zone—just a clearing in the brush—where I locked my bike and took a deep breath. The adventure wasn’t over yet.

With my hiking shoes on, I began the 20-minute walk to the beach. The trail was rocky with reddish dirt and lava fields, framed by twisted branches. My shoes kicked up dust with each step, but I could already smell the salt in the air.

And then—Playa Roja appeared.

⁠

Red Sand, Rocks & Blue Waves

There were only a couple of other visitors that day. I found a spot near a lava rock outcrop, unpacked my snacks, and settled in for the afternoon glow. Birds circled overhead and the sun began its slow descent.

As the golden hour lit up the red sand with firelight, it felt like I had landed on another planet. Sunset at Playa Roja is an experience that lingers in the soul—raw, quiet, and beautiful.

⁠Back in the Dark

As twilight faded, I turned on my headlamp and made my way back through the trail. The rocks seemed to shimmer in the moonlight. When I reached the parking zone, a taxi was waiting for me—I had arranged it earlier for $25 to get back to Puerto Ayora safely, tired but happy.
⁠

✨ Alternative Options to Explore Playa Roja

🚗 By Car (No Sweat Route)

If biking 40 km sounds a bit too much, you can rent a taxi or private car from Puerto Ayora for $40–$50 (round trip). You'll get dropped off at the same parking spot near the trailhead, hike to the beach, and enjoy your day without the workout.

⛺️ Camping & Grilling Option

Want to stay longer? Camping is allowed in Playa Roja with a permit from the Galápagos National Park. Bring your tent, a portable grill, and food supplies. It’s an incredible spot to stargaze and wake up to the sound of waves hitting red sand. Just make sure to Leave No Trace and respect local regulations.
⁠
⁠

🕒 Hours & Essentials

• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to sunset (arrive by 3–4 PM)
• Trail Access: Open year-round; no entrance fee
• Hike Duration: ~20 minutes from the parking to the beach
• Equipment:
  • Mountain Bike: Rental Deals
  • Water & Snacks: No shops are nearby.
  • Mosquito Repellent
  • ⁠Headlamp or flashlight
  • ⁠Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
  • ⁠Comfortable shoes (for rocky trail)
  • Trash Bag: Help keep the area clean.